Thin-film solar technology paves the way for a

cheaper and greener PV future!

Thin-film photovoltaic cells or (TFPV) is the 3^rd generation in PV technology and its benefits are well suited to Australian conditions. With lower production costs and higher production rates than traditional crystalline cells, Thin-film technology is predicted to have a 20% market share by mid 2010. This means a more affordable solution for an ever-growing PV industry, and one that overcomes the drawbacks of traditional PV cells.

TFPV cells have many benefits over traditional crystalline PV cells. They generate less waste and require less energy during production and perform well in high temperature, dim light or off axis conditions and are tolerant to shading. A common byproduct of PV manufacture is Silicon Chloride (SiCl₄) which if disposed of incorrectly can combine with water to produce Hydrochloric Acid (HCL). For every 1kg of crystalline PV produced, 4kg’s of waste SiCl₄ is discarded. TFPV cells produce far less waste and provide a cleaner greener manufacturing process. Most PV cells suffer from performance loses during high temperature conditions. This usually occurs when the sun is at its peak and potentially most productive point of the day. TFPV cells have a 10% less reduction in performance at these times making your PV investment that much more productive. Think of the difference over a 20 year period! Add this to fantastic low light and off axis performance and the benefits speak for themselves.

A Thin Film PV array can easily best its older generation equivalent by utilizing these advances in technology. Each day that your TFPV array is producing energy you are reducing your energy payback period because less silicon and less energy is used to manufacture each panel. Thin Film panels need on average, one year of use to produce the same amount of energy required to manufacture each panel compared to two or more years for traditional PV cells. All these benefits combined means you can reap the rewards of your investment sooner and greener.